By turns devotional, empowering and nurturing, Jon Hopkins’ forthcoming ‘RITUAL’ is a 41-minute electronic symphony built from cavernous subs, hypnotic drumming and transcendent melodic interplay. Tense, immersive and ultimately triumphant, it is a culmination of themes explored throughout his 22-year career and acts as the kinetic counterpart to 2021’s ‘Music For Psychedelic Therapy’.
A single piece unfolding over eight chapters, ‘RITUAL’ is personified by depth and contrast. Taking ceremony, spiritual liberation and the hero's journey as inspiration, it taps into an ancient and primal energy.
Featuring long-term collaborators Vylana, 7RAYS, Ishq, Clark, Emma Smith, Daisy Vatalaro and Cherif Hashizume, ‘RITUAL’ came together within the second half of 2023, but initial seeds were sown in 2022, when Hopkins was commissioned to compose for the stroboscopic Dreamachine experience in London. A project that felt ceremonial from the outset, this shorter piece was the embryo of ‘RITUAL’, with Hopkins gaining inspiration from the feeling of intention that is inherent in the Dreamachine space.
‘RITUAL’ is both emotionally and sonically heavy, whilst retaining a warm, live feel, where the juxtaposition between softness and intensity forms the core of the whole. So take time, prepare and immerse in ‘RITUAL’ for 41 minutes of uninterrupted listening: sonic divination of the most potent form.
Available to independent retailers on clear double vinyl. The LP formats feature artwork etching on Side D and are presented in a gatefold sleeve with insert and digital download card.